You had an ASD or PFO closure on _______ through the right/left femoral vein.
Incision Care
You may shower 24 hours after the closure. Remove the bandage over the site before taking a shower.
Gently clean the site with soap and water. Pat it dry. Cover the site with a band aid. Do this for three days.
Keep the site clean and dry.
Activities
For the next 5 days:
Do not sit in a bathtub, hot tub, or go into a swimming pool.
Do not lift more than 10 pounds.
Do not strain.
No vigorous activity.
Diet
You should be able to eat a normal diet the morning after the procedure.
You may eat and drink the night of the procedure if you feel up to it.
You may not feel hungry or feel nauseous the first night. This is normal and will get better. We suggest a light diet the first night, if hungry.
What to Expect
You may be sore and tender at the site. This may last for one week.
You may have a small amount of bloody drainage at the site.
There may be a bruise at the site. This could take 2-3 weeks to go away.
Pain Control
You may take either Tylenol every 4-6 hours or Motrin/ibuprofen every 6-8 hours.
Signs and Symptoms of Infection
Redness, swelling or drainage at the site.
Prolonged pain.
Fever over 101 F for two readings taken 4 hours apart.
Return to Work/School
You may return to work/school on
__________________________________.
Medicines
You will need to take baby aspirin every day for the next 6 months or longer. Some patients also take Plavix® (clopidogrel). For the next 6 months, you will need to take antibiotics before certain medical procedures. Your doctor will decide if you need to keep taking these medicines after 6 months.
Keep taking your present medicines as prescribed. Tell your doctor if you have any side effects. Do not stop taking aspirin or Plavix® (clopidogrel) without talking to your cardiologist first.
Follow-Up
You will have a follow up cardiology visit with echocardiogram in 1-2 weeks and again in 6 months. We will be check your device and heart function about every 2-3 years routinely.
When to Call
Call for emergency help if:
You have bleeding or sudden swelling should at the site. Apply direct pressure to the site and call for help. Keep holding pressure until you get help.
Your leg becomes numb, cold, or turns blue or you have severe pain.
Call the doctor right away if:
You have any signs of infection.
You have severe pain.
You have chest pain, palpitations or increased shortness of breath.
Who to Call
Call your provider with any questions or concerns.
